Automatic telephone system



22, 1950 J. E. OSTLINE 2,519,849

AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE sys'rm Filed Feb. 7, 1947 9 Sheets-Sheet l Inventor G John E. OsHine N N fww MM Attorneys AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE SYSTEM Filed Feb. 7, 1947 9 Sheets-Sheet 2 FIG. 2

Invemor John E. Osiline Attorneys Aug. 22, 1950 J. E. OSTLINE 2,519,849

AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE SYSTEM Filed Feb. 7, 1947 9 Sheets-Sheet 3 Aug. 22, 1950 J. E. OSTLINE AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE SYSTEM 9 Sheets-Sheet 9 Filed Feb. 7, 1947 II'WQDTOI' John E. Osfline Afiornevs 7 owl/w,

Patented Aug. 22, 1950 AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE SYSTEM John E. Ostline, Chicago, Ill., assignor to Automatic Electric Laboratories, Inc., Chicago, 111., a corporation of Delaware Application February 7, 1947, Serial No. 727,175

32 Claims. (01. 179-22) The present invention relates to automatic telephone systems and, more particularly, to improved automatic switching apparatus for setting up telephone connections.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a telephone system in which connections may be set up by automatic switching apparatus to telephone lines employing directory numbers corresponding to the line terminals, wherein each individual automatic switch utilized comprises register mechanism that does not require releasing and resetting between successive signals received thereby in order to control successive coordinate operations of the switch.

Another object of the invention is to provide an automatic switch that comprises improved register mechanism which may be operated in accordance with a first signal received directly from its home position to a first position in order to bring about a first operation of the switch corresponding to the first signal received, and then operated in accordance with a second signal inclined directly from its first position to a second position in order to bring about a second operation of the switch corresponding to the second signal received.

Another object of the invention is to provide in an automatic telephone system a. finder incorporating an automatic switch of the character described.

Another object of the invention is to provide in an automatic telephone system a selector incorporating an automatic switch of the character described.

Another object of the invention is to provide in an automatic telephone system a connector incorporating an automatic switch of the character described.

A further object of the invention is to provide an automatic switch of improved construction and arrangement that comprises a plurality of primary members and a plurality of secondary members and a plurality of selecting magnets respectively associated with the primary members and with the secondary members, whereby each selecting magnet is operative to select simultaneously the corresponding primary member and the corresponding secondary member.

A further object of the invention is to provide in an automatic switch of the coordinate type, improved clutch-control mechanism common to the primary bars and to the secondary bars, whereby, when any primary bar is clutched to the associated primary operating element, the

corresponding secondary bar is clutched to the associated secondary operating element.

A still further object of the invention is to provide in an automatic switch of the coordinate type, an improved arrangement for testing the lines in a selected group, selected incident to the operation of the corresponding primary bar, prior to operation of any secondary bar; whereby a secondary bar corresponding to a desired line in the selected group is operated only in the event the testing arrangement tests the desired line as being selectable by the switch.

Further features of the invention pertain-to the particular arrangement of the circuit elements of the system, whereby the above outlined and additional operating features thereof are attained.

The invention, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following specification taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which Figure 1 is a fragmentary front elevational view of switching apparatus constructed and arranged in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 2 is a plan view of the switching apparatus shown in Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 3-3 in Fig. 1, of the switching apparatus; Fig. 4 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 4-4 in Fig. 1, of the switching apparatus, illustrating a latch arrangement cooperating between primary and secondary operating elements thereof; Fig. 5 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 5-5 in Fig. 1, of the switching apparatus, illustrating a clutch arrangement cooperating between the secondary operating element and a first secondary bar thereof; and Figs. 6 to 11, inclusive, taken together, illustrate the details of a complete automatic telephone system having incorporated therein switching apparatus of the character of that shown in Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive. More particularly, Figs. 6, 7, 8 and 9 should be arranged from left to right in end-to-end relation; and Figs. 10 and 11 should be arranged from left to right in end-to-end relation and disposed, respectively, below Figs. 6 and 7 in order to form a unified diagram.

Referring now, more particularly, to Figs. 6 to 11, inclusive, of the drawings, there is illustrated an automatic telephone system comprising an exchange terminating 1000 subscriber lines, including the subscriber lines 690 and 595 respectively extending to subscriber substations T6 and T602. Each subscriber line is provided with a line link illustrated, which comprises the finder 600,-

shown in Fig. 6, and the selector 100, shown in Fig. '1. Also, the switching apparatus comprises ten groups of connectors, each including ten individual connectors; the ninth individual connector 800 in the second group being shown in Figs. 8 and 9. Moreover, the system comprises a control circuit and an allotter individual to each group of finder-selectorli'nk's'; the control circuit I000 and the allotter H00, respectively shown in Figs. and 11, being individually associated with the second group of finder-selector links, including the first link illustrated. Each group of finder-selector links serves a corresponding group of 100 of the subscriber lines; and each group of connectors serves a corresponding group of 100 nectors, including the ninth connector 800 illustrated, serves the second group of 100 subscriber lines.

Preferably, the line circuits are identical; the line circuit 650 and 610 respectively comprising, as shown in Fig. 6, line relays R655 and R615, and cut-oils relays R660 and R660; and are connected and arranged in a manner more fully explained hereinafter.

Preferably, each of the links is identical to that illustrated, comprising the finder 600 and the selector 100. The finder 600, shown in Fig. 6, comprises a switch mechanism SM600; and a relay group including a start relay R630 and a test relay R640; as well as a selecting device or marker switch 620 of the forward-stepping rotary type; and is connected and arranged in a manner more fully explained hereinafter. The switch mechanism SM600 is identical to that shown in Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive, and described hereinafter; and comprises, among other elements, ten marking magnets MM60| to MM600, inclusive; ten

primary members or bars P360! to PB600, in-

whereas, the one hundred primary contact sets P06 to P0600, inclusive, are associated with the ten primary bars PB60| to P3600, inclusive, in the manner indicated below:

Primary Disposition of the Primary Contact Bars Sets (Left to Right) PBBOL-.. P0611, P0612, etc., and P0610. PB602 P0620, P0621, etc., and P0629. PB603 P0639, P0630, etc., and P0638. PB604 P0648, P0649,etc., and P0647. PB605 P0657, P0658, etc., and P0656. PB606 P0666, P0667,etc., and P0665. PB607 P0675, P0676, etc., and P0674. PB608 P0684, P0685, etc., and P0683. PB609 P0693, P0694,etc., and P0692. P3600.... P0602, P0603, etc., and P0601.

Finally, the switch mechanism SM600 comprises ten riser busses RB60I to R3600, inclusive, respectively terminating in the ten secondary contact sets S060l to S0600, inclusive. Further, each of the ten riser busses RB60I to R3600, inclusive, terminates in ten of the primary contact sets respectively disposed in the ten groups of primary contact sets. For examples, the riser bus RB60I terminates in the ten primary contact sets 'P06ll, P0620, etc., and P0602; the riser bus R3602 terminates in the ten primary contact sets P06l2, PC62I, etc., and P0603; and the riser bus R3600 terminates in the ten primary contact sets P06l0, P0629, etc., and PC60I.

In the finder 600, the marker switch 620 is of the forward-stepping rotary type, as previously noted, and comprises two double-ended wipers 62l and 622 provided with individually associated contact banks, each including ten individual contacts; and a magnet M623 for driving the wipers noted step by step in the clockwise direction. Also, associated with the marker switch 620 is a set of switch springs S626, which is actuated when the wipers noted are driven away from their home positions, wherein they engage the tenth contacts in the associated contact banks.

The selector 100, shown in Fig. 7, comprises a switch mechanism SM; and a relay group including a test relay R140, a line relay R150, a hold relay R160, a digit relay R and a control relay R180; as well as a selecting device or marker switch of the forward-stepping rotary type; and is connected and arranged in a manner more fully explained hereinafter. The switch mechanism SM100 is substantially identical to that shown in Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive, and described hereinafter; and comprises, among other elements, ten marking magnets MM10I to MM100, inclusive; ten primary members or bars PB10| to P3100, inclusive; a primary magnet PM1II; ten secondary members or bars $3101 to SB100, inclusive; a secondary magnet SM 1;

one hundred primary contact sets P011! to P0100, inclusive; and ten secondary contact sets S010l to S0100, inclusive.

More particularly, in the switch mechanism SM100, the ten secondary contact sets S0101 to S0100, inclusive, are respectively associated with the ten secondary bars SB10I to SB100, inclusive; whereas, the one hundred primary contact sets P0111 to P0100, inclusive, are associated with the ten primary bars PB10I to PB100, inclusive, in the manner indicated below:

prises ten riser busses R1310! to R3100, inclusive, respectively terminating in the ten secondary contact sets $01M to S0100, inclusive. Further, each of the ten riser busses RB10I to R3100, inclusive, terminates in ten of the primary contact sets respectively disposed in the ten groups of primary contact sets. For examples, the riser busRB10l terminates in the ten primary contact sets PC" I, P0120, etc., and P0102; the riser bus R3102 terminates in the ten primary contact sets PC1I2, P012I, etc., and P0103; and the riser bus R3100 terminates in the ten primary sets P01 I0, P0129, etc., and P010I.

In the finder 100, the marker switch 120 is of the forward-stepping rotary type, as previously noted, and comprises two double-ended wipers 12I and 122 provided with individually associated contact blanks, each including ten individual contacts; and a magnet M123 for driving the wipers noted step by step in the clockwise direction. Also, associated with the marker switch 120 is a set of switch springs S126, which is actuated when the wipers noted are driven away from their home positions, wherein they engage the tenth contacts in the associated contact banks.

Preferably, each of the connectors is identical to the connector 800, shown in Figs. 8 and 9, that comprises a switch mechanism SM900; and a relay group including an answer relay R8I0, a line relay R920, 9, hold relay R830, a transfer relay R840, a ring cut-off relay R850, a busy relay R860, a test relay R880 and two control relays R810 and R890; as well as a selecting device or marker switch 920 of the forward-stepping rotary type; and is connected and arranged in a manner more fully explained hereinafter. The switch mechanism SM900 is substantially identical to that shown in Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive, and described hereinafter; and comprises, among other elements, ten marking magnets MM90I to MM900; inclusive; ten primary members or bars PB90I to PB900, inclusive, a primary magnet PM9II; ten secondary -members or bars SB90I to SB900, inclusive, a secondary magnet SMSII; one hundred primary contact sets P09 to P0900, inclusive; and ten secondary contact sets S090I to S0900, inclusive.

More particularly, in the switch mechanism SM900, the ten secondary contact sets S090I to S0900, inclusive, are respectively associated with the ten secondary bars SB90I to sB900, inclusive; whereas the one hundred primary contact sets PC9I0 to P0900, inclusive, are associated with the ten primary bars PB90I to PB900, inclusive, in the manner indicated below:

Disposition of tlc tPrimary Contact e Primary S Bars (Left to Right) Finally, the switch mechanism SM900 comprises ten riser busses, RB99I to RB900, inclusive, respectively terminating in the ten secondary contact sets S090I to S0900, inclusive. Further, each of the ten riser busses RB90I to R3900, inclusive, terminates in the ten primary contact sets respectively disposed in the ten groups of primary contact sets For examples, the riser bus RB90I terminates in the ten primary contact sets PC9I0, P0929, etc., and P090l; the riser bus RB902 terminates in the ten primary contact sets P09, P0920, etc., and P0902; and the riser bus R3900 terminates in the ten primary contact sets P09I9, P0928, etc., and P0900.

In the connector 800, the marker switch 920 is of the forward-stepping rotary type, as previously noted, and comprises two double-ended wipers 92I and 922 provided with individually associated contact banks, each including ten individual contacts; and a magnet M923 for driving the wipers noted step by step in the clockwise direction. Also, associated with the marker switch 920, is a set of switch springs S926, which is actuated when the wipers noted are driven away from their home positions, wherein they engage the tenth contacts in the associated contact banks.

The control circuit I000 is commonly associated with the finder-selector links in the second group and comprises a relay group including a start relay RIOI0', a stop relay RI020, a step relay RI030, two transfer relays Rl040 and Rl050, a reset relay 'RI060, five counting relays RI065, RI010, Rl015, RI080 and RIO-85, and a reflex relay RI090; and is connected and arranged in a manner more fully explained hereinafter.

The allotter H00 is commonly associated with the finder-selector links in the second group and comprises a relay group including a plurality of link relays respectively corresponding to the finder-selector links in this group; the link relay RI I30 being individual to the first finder-selector link illustrated in this group, and the link relays RI I20 and RI I I0 being respectively individual to an intermediate link, not shown, in this group, and to the last link, not shown, in this group; a fault relay RI I40; a reset relay RI I45; a linksbusy relay RI I50; a link disconnect relay RI I60; a cut-through relay RI I10; a start relay RI I15; a link start relay RI I; a control relay RI I; and two timer relays RI I and RI I; all connected and arranged in a manner more fully described hereinafter.

Construction and operation of the switch mechanism As previously noted, each of the finders 000, etc., selectors 100, etc., and connectors 800, etc., comprises a switch mechanism substantially identical to that shown in Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive. Referring now, more particularly, to Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive, the switch mechanism SMI00 there illustrated, comprises a frame including a bottom plate IN, a top plate I02, two upstanding end plates I03 and I04, and two upstanding intermediate plates I05 and I06, suitably secured together. The intermediate plate I05 is disposed in substantially parallel spaced-apart relation with respect to the end plate I03 and cooperates therewith to support ten horizontally extending, slidably mounted, primary members or bars, PBIDI t0 PB! 00, inclusive, formed of insulating material and arranged in substantially parallel spacedapart relation. Similarly, the intermediate plate I06 is disposed in substantially parallel spacedapart relation with respect to the end plate I04 and cooperates therewith to support ten horizontally extending, slidably mounted, secondary members or bars SBIOI to SBI00, inclusive, formed of insulating material and arranged in substantially parallel spaced-apart relation. More particularly, the ten primary bars PBIOI to PBI00, inclusive, are arranged respectively in axial alignment with respect to the ten secondary bars SBIOI' to SBI00, inclusive; each primary bar PBIOI, etc., being slidably supported in a pair of aligned slots formed in the end plate I03 and in the intermediate plate I05, respectively; and each secondary bar SBI 0I, etc., being slidably supported in a pair of aligned slots formed asiasae in the end plate 804 and m the intermediate plate ms, respectively. The rear opening formed in the frame and I defined by the'bottom plate 0i,. t he top plate I02, the end plate I03 and the intermediate plate I05, is closed by an upstanding plate of insulating material I01 constituting a terminal block carrying ten groups of substantially horizontally dis posed and vertically spaced-apart, bare-wire, conductor sets. Each group of conductor sets comprises ten individual conductor sets; and each individual conductor set comprises at least three individual conductors, including a positive line conductor, a negative line conductor and a control conductor; one of the conductor sets being indicated at H I. Thus, it will be understood that the terminal block I01 is adapted to terminate 100 subscriber lines of the three-conductor type, arranged in ten groups of ten lines each. The ten groups of conductor sets project forwardly from the terminal block I01 and are respectively imbedded in the ten primary bars PBIOI to PBI00, inclusive. For example, the first group of conductor sets, including the individual conductor set I, project forwardly from the terminal block I01 and are imbedded in the first primary bar PBIOI. Also, the bottom plate IOI and the top plate I02 respectively carry forwardly projecting strips of insulating material H2 and 3, which support'jzen vertically disposed, barewire, riser busses RBIOI to RBI00, inclusive; each comp-rising three individual conductors, including a positive line conductor, a negative line conductor and a control conductor. The individual conductors of the ten riser busses RB I to RBI00, inclusive, are arranged in interspersed relation with respect to the outer ends of the individual conductors of the conductor sets imbedded in the ten primary bars PBIOI to PBI00, inclusive, and normally out-of-contact therewith. More speciclusive, are disposed slightly inwardly with respect to the outer ends of the one hundred conductor sets I I I, etc., imbedded in the ten primary bars PBIIII to PBI'III), inclusive; and the individual conductors of each riser bus RBIOI, etc., are positioned slightly to the left of the respective individual conductors of the ten cooperating conductor sets III, etc., imbedded in the ten primary bars PBI0I, etc. More particularly, the ten conductor sets I I I, etc., imbedded in each primary bar PBIOI, etc., respectively cooperate with the ten riser busses RBI'III, etc.; whereby each group of ten conductor sets comprises one individual conductor set cooperating with each riser bus RBIOI, etc.

In view of the foregoing description of the arrangement of the one hundred conductor sets III, etc., and the ten riser busses RBI M to RBI00, inclusive, it will be understood that when any one of the primary bars PBIOI, etc. is moved from its normal position toward the left, the ten conductor sets III, etc., imbedded therein are moved into respective engagements with the ten riser busses RBIOI to RBI00, inclusive. Accordingly, each of the ten riser busses RBI 0I, etc., comprises ten intersections with ten corresponding ones of the conductor sets I I I, etc.; which intersections are referred to as primary contact sets. Thus, each primary bar PBIOI, etc., corresponds to ten primary contact sets arranged in a group; and each riser bus RBIUI, etc., corresponds to ten primary contact sets respectively disposed in the ten groups of primary contact sets. For example, the first primary bar PBIOI corresponds fically, the ten riser busses RBIOI to RBI00, in-

to the first group of ten primarycontact sets, in

---mary contact sets PCiiI, Pcflzil, etc., respectively disposed inthe ten groups of primary contact sets.

The rear opening formed in the frame and defined by the bottom plate IN, the top plate I02, the end plate I04 and the intermediate plate I06, is closed by an upstanding plate of insulating material I I4, constituting a terminal block carrying ten substantially horizontally disposed and vertically spaced-apart, bare-wire conductor sets. Each conductor set comprises three individual conductors, including a positive line conductor, a negative line conductor and a control conductor; one of the conductor sets being indicated at H5. The ten conductor sets project forwardly from the terminal block Ill and are respectively imbedded in the ten secondary bars SBIOI to SBI00, inclusive. For example, the first conductor set II5 projects forwardly from the terminal block Ill and is imbedded in the first secondary bar SBIOI. Also, the bottom plate I 0| and the top plate I02 respectively carry forwardly projecting strips of insulating material H6 and In, which support a vertically disposed, bare-wire, trunk I30; the trunk I30 comprising three individual conductors, including a positive line conductor, a negative line conductor and a control conductor. The individual conductors of the trunk I30 are arranged in interspersed relation with respect to the outer ends of the individual conductors of the conductor sets imbedded in the ten secondary bars SBIOI to SBI00, inclusive, and normally out-of-contact therewith. More specifically, the trunk I30 is disposed slightly inwardly with respect to the outer ends of the ten conductor sets I I5, etc., imbedded in the ten secondary bars SBIOI to SBI00, inclusive; and the individual conductors of the trunk I30 are positioned slightly to the right 01 the respective individual conductors of the ten cooperating conductor sets H5, etc., imbedded in the ten secondary bars SBIOI, etc. More particularly, the conductor set II5, etc., imbedded in each of the secondary bars SBIII I, etc., cooperate with the trunk I30.

In view of the foregoing description of the arrangement of the ten conductor sets H5, etc., and the trunk I30, it will be understood that when any one of the secondary bars SBIOI, etc., is moved from its normal position toward the right, the conductor set I I5, etc., imbedded therein is moved into engagement with the trunk I30. Accordingly, the trunk I30 comprises ten intersections with the ten conductor sets H5, etc.; which intersections are referred to as secondary contact sets. Thus, each secondary bar SBIM,

etc., corresponds to one secondary contact set; a

and the trunk I30 corresponds to the ten secondary contact sets. For example, the first secondary bar SBIOI corresponds to the first secondary contact set SCIOI; and the trunk I30 corresponds to the ten secondary contact sets, including the secondary contact sets SCIIJI, SCI02, SCI 03, etc.

As previously noted, the one hundred conductor sets III, etc., carried by the terminal block I01 terminate onehundred subscriber lines; and any group of ten of the conductor sets may be selectively connected to the ten riser busses RBIOI to RBI00, inclusive. The ten riser busses RBIIII to RBI00, inclusive, are respectively connected to the ten conductor sets I I5, etc., carried by the terminal block I II. For example, the first riser bus RBIOI is connected to the first conductor set II5 imbedded in the first secondary bar SBIOI. Accordingly, the ten riser busses RBII to RBI00, inclusive, may be selectively connected to the trunk I30. Since each riser bus corresponds to ten individual primary contact sets respectively disposed in the ten groups of primary contact sets, and is, in turn, terminated in one of the secondary contact sets in the group of ten secondary contact sets; it follows that each individual secondary contact set corresponds to ten individual primary contact sets respectively disposed in the ten groups of primary contact sets. Recapitulating, each primary bar PBIOI, etc., corresponds to a group of ten primary contact sets PCI I I, etc.; and each of the secondary bars SBIOI, etc., corresponds to ten' individual primary contact sets PCI I I, etc., respectively disposed in the ten groups of primary contact sets. In view of the foregoing description of the switching apparatus I00, it will be understood that any group of ten of the subscriber lines terminating in the terminal block I01 may be selectedby operating the corresponding one of the primary bars; and that then any one of the individual subscriber lines in the previously selected group of ten subscriber lines may be selected therefrom by operating the corresponding one of the secondary bars.

In the switch mechanism SMI00 the space formed in the frame and defined by the bottom plate IN, the top plate I02 and the intermediate plates I and I06, accommodates an upstanding channel-shaped member I40 secured in place between the bottom plate IOI and the top plate I02, and provided with forwardly projecting flanges MI and I42 suitably spaced from the respectively associated intermediate plates I05 and I06. The member I40 carries ten vertically spaced-apart, substantially L-shaped, brackets I5I, I52, etc., projecting forwardly therefrom, and disposed between the flanges I4I and I42. The ten brackets I5 I, I52, etc., carry ten selecting or marking magnets MMIOI, MMI02, etc., respectively, arranged between and forwardly of the flanges MI and I 42. Each of the marking magnets MMI 0 I ,MMI02, etc., is provided with a magnetic field element and an associated winding; the marking magnet MMIOI being provided with a field element I6IF and an associated winding I6 IW. Ten substantially horizontally extending and vertically spaced-apart rods I1 I, I12, etc., are journaled in pairs of aligned openings formed in the flanges I4I and I42, and respectively carry ten magnetic armatures I8I, I82, etc., respectively cooperating with the field element IEIF, etc., of the respective marking magnets MMIOI, etc. Ten coil springs I9I, I92, etc., respectively surround the rods I'II, I12, etc.; and are respectively secured between the flange MI and the associated armatures I8I, etc.; whereby the armatures I8I, etc., are biased in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 3, away from the associated field elements I6IF, etc., of the respective marking magnets MMIOI, etc. In view of the foregoing description of the marking magnets MMIOI, etc., it will be understood that when the windings I6IW, etc., thereof are energized, the associated field elements I6IF, etc., thereof attract the associated armatures I8I, etc., in order to cause rotation of the respective rods I1I, etc., in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 3, against the bias of the associated coil springs I9I, etc. When the windings IBIW, etc., are deenergized the associated armatures IOI etc., are released and returned by the associated coil springs I9I, etc., in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 3, back into their normal positions.

Further, the switch mechanism SMI00 comprises a vertically disposed primary operating element 20I journaled in a pair of aligned openings formed in the bottom plate MI and in the top plate I02, the primary operating element being arranged between the intermediate plate I05 and the flange MI and projecting above the top plate I02; and a vertically disposed secondary operating element 30I journaled in a pair of aligned openings formed in the bottom plate IN and in the top plate I02, the secondary operating element being arranged between the intermediate plate I06 and the flange I42 and projecting above the top plate I02. The primary operating element 20I is supported by a stepbearing element 202 rigidly secured thereto and engaging the top plate I02; and is operatively associated with a primary magnet PMI I I carried by the top plate I02. More particularly, the primary magnet PMI I I comprises a magnetic heelpiece 203 secured directly to the top plate I02, a magnetic core 204 supporting a winding 205, and a magnetic armature 206 rigidly secured to the upper end of the primary operating element 20I. The armature 206 is provided with a rearwardly extending arm 201 that cooperates with a set of resilient switch springs 208 secured to the magnetic heel-piece 203; which set of switch springs 208 biases the arm 201, and consequently the armature 206, away from the end of the core 204, thereby biasing the primary operating element 20I in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2. It will be understood that when the winding 205 of the primary magnet PM I I I is energized the core 204 will attract the armature 206 rotating the primary operating element 20I in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2, against the bias of the set of switch springs 208 engaging the arm 201; whereby the set of switch springs 208 is operated. Subsequently, when the winding 205 is deenergized the armature 206 will be released by the core 204 and the primary operating element 20I will be rotated in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2, back into its home position by the set of switch springs 208 acting upon the arm 201; whereby the set of switch springs 208 will be restored.

Similarly, the secondary operating element 30I is supported by a step-bearing element 302 rigidly secured thereto and engaging the top plate I02; and is operatively associated with a secondary magnet SMI I I carried by the top plate I02. More particularly, the secondary magnet SMI II comprises a magnetic heel-piece 303 secured directly to the top plate I02, a magnetic core 304 supporting a winding 305, and a magnetic armature 306 rigidly secured to the upper end of the second operating element 30I. The armature 306 is provided with a rearwardly extending arm 301 that cooperates with a set of resilient switch springs 308 secured to the magnetic heel-piece 303; which set of switch springs 308 biases the arm 301, and consequently the armature 306, away from the end of the core 304, thereby biasing the secondary operating element 30I in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2. It will be understood that when the winding 305 of the secondary magnet SMI II is energized the core 304 will attract the armature 306 rotating the secondary operating element 30I in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2, against 11 the bias of the set of switch springs 308 engaging the arm 301; whereby the set of switch springs 308 is operated. Subsequently, when the winding 335 is deenergized, the armature 306 will be released by the core 304 and the secondary operating element 30I will be rotated in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2, back into its home position by the set of switch springs 308 acting upon the arm 301; whereby the set of switch springs 308 will be restored.

The primary operating element l carries ten vertically spaced-apart operating lugs 22l, 222, etc., respectively disposed in alignment with the ten primary bar PBIOI, PBI02, etc. More particularly, the primary bars PBIIII, PBI02, etc., have notches or slots 23I, 232, etc., respectively formed in the extreme right-hand ends thereof into-which the lugs 22I, 222, etc., are adapted respectively to enter when the primary operating element 20I is rotated in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2; whereby the primary operating element 20I does not normally exert any thrust upon the primary bars PBI III, PBI02, etc., incident to rotation thereof in the clockwise direction, as noted above. It is pointed out that the primary bars PBIllI, PBI02, etc., are normally urged to the right by leaf springs 2, 242, etc., secured to the end plate I03 and engaging the extreme left-hand ends thereof; and that the normal positions of the primary bars PBIOI, PBI02, etc., are established by pins 25I, 252, etc., respectively carried thereby and normally engaging the intermediate plate IIJ5. Similarly, the secondary operating element I carries ten vertically spaced-apart operating lugs 32I, 322, etc., respectively disposed in alignment with the ten secondary bars SBIIII, SBI02, etc. More particularly, the secondary bars SBIOI, SBI02, etc., have notches or slots 33I, 332, etc., respectively formed in the extreme left-hand ends thereof into which the lugs 32I, 322, etc., are adapted respectively to enter when the secondary operat ing element 3M is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2; whereby the secondary operating element 32I does not normally exert any thrust upon the secondary bars SBIOI, SBI02, etc., incident to rotation thereof in the counterclockwise direction, as noted above. It is pointed out that the secondary bars SBIUI,

'SBI02, etc., are normally urged to the left by leaf springs 3, 342, etc., secured to the end plate I and engaging the extreme right-hand ends thereof; and that the normal positions of the secondary bars SBIOI, SBIOZ, etc., are established by pins 35I, 352, etc., respectively carried thereby and normally engaging the intermediate plate I06. I

The rods I1I, I12, etc., carry clutch fingers 26I, 262, etc., adjacent to the extreme left-hand ends thereof which are adapted to be inserted between the extreme right-hand ends of the primary bars PBIIII, PBI02, etc., and the cooperating lugs 22l, 222, etc., carried by the primary operating element 2M. More particularly, the clutch fingers 26I, 262, etc., are directly secured to the outer ends of coil springs 2", 212, etc.; the inner ends of the coil springs 2", 212, etc., being directly secured to the rods I1I, I12, etc. Also, the rods I1I, I12, etc., carry clutch fingers 36I, 362, etc., adjacent to the extreme right-hand ends thereof which are adapted to be inserted between the extreme left-hand ends of the secondary bars SBIOI, SBI02, etc., and the cooperating lugs 32I, 322, etc., carried by the secondary operating element 30L More par- 12 ticularly, the clutch finger 36I, 362, etc., are directly secured to the outer ends of coil springs 3", 312, etc.; the inner ends of the coil springs 3", 312, etc., being directly secured to the rods I1I, I12, etc.

In view of the foregoing description it will be understood that the marking magnets MMIUI, MMI02, etc., constitute clutch mechanism for respectively clutching the primary bars PBIIJI, PB I 02, etc., and the secondary bars SBIOI, SBI02, etc. respectively to the primary operating element 20I and to the secondary operating element 30L Moreover, the primary bars PBIOI, PBI02, etc., and the secondary bars SBIOI, SBI02, etc., are clutched, in pairs respectively to the primary operating element 2M and to the secondary operating element 3lil. For example, when the winding I6 I W of the first marking magnet MM I (II is energized the associated armature I8I is attracted, rotating the rod I1I in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 3; whereby the clutch finger 26I is positioned between the extreme right-hand end of the first primary bar PBIOI anddhe associated lug 22I carried by the primary operating element 2! and the clutch finger 36I is positioned between the extreme lefthand end of the first secondary bar SBIIII and the associated lug 32I carried by the secondary operating element 30 I. At this time, in the event the primary magnet PMI II is operated, the primary operating element 2IiI is rotated in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2, in the manner previously explained; whereby the operating lug 22l carried by the primary operating element 20I engages the clutch finger 26I exerting a thrust toward the left upon the first primary bar PBIIlI in order to operate the ten primary contact sets PCI II to PCIII), inclusive, associated therewith. Also at'this time, in the event the secondary magnet SMI II is operated, the secondary operating element 30I is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 2, in the manner previously explained; whereby the operating lug 32I carried by the secondary operating element 30I engages the clutch finger 36I exerting a thrust toward the right upon the first secondary bar SBIliI in order to operate the secondary contact set SCIIII associated therewith. Of course, it will be understood that when the primary operating element 20I is operated at this time, the remainder of the lugs 222, etc., carried thereby enter the cooperating slots 232, etc., formed in the extreme right-hand ends of the other primary bars, PBI02, etc.; without effecting operation of these Primary bars. Likewise, when the secondary operating element 3III is operated at this time, the remainder of the lugs 322, etc., carried thereby enter the cooperating slots 332, etc., formed in the extreme left-hand ends of the other secondary bars SBI02, etc., without effecting operation of these secondary bars. After the primary operating element MI is operated in the manner explained above, the winding IGIW of the marking magnet MMIOI may be deenergized in order to cause the armature I8I thereof to be released and the associated rod I" to be returned to its normal position by the cooperating coil spring I9I without withdrawing the clutch finger 26I from between the extreme right-hand end of the first primary bar PBIIII and the lug 22I carried by the primary operating element 20I, due to the provision of the coil spring 21I between the clutch finger 25I and the rod "I. In other words, the coil spring 21I permits rotation of the associated rod I" back into 13 its normal position while the clutch finger 26! is held between the extreme right-hand end of the first primary bar PB!!!! and the lug 22! carried by the primary operating element 20!. Subsequently, when the primary operating element 20! is rotated back into its home position in the manner previously explained, the clutch finger 26! is withdrawn from between the extreme right-hand end of the first primary bar PB!! and the lug 22! carried by the primary operating element 20!, due to the resiliency of the coil spring 21!; whereby the clutch finger 26! is returned back into its normal position in nonclutching relation with respect to the lug 22! and the cooperating first primary bar PBHlI. Similarly, after the secondary operating element 30! is operated in the manner explained above, the winding !6 !W of the marking magnet MM! 0! may be deenergized in order to cause the armature !8! thereof to be released and the associated rod l!! to be returned to its normal position by the cooperating coil spring !9! without withdrawing the clutch finger 36! from between the extreme left-hand end of the first secondary bar SBIO! and the lug 32! carried by the secondary operating element 30!, due to the provision of the coil spring 31! between the clutch finger 36! and the rod !H. In other words, the coil spring 3!! permits rotation of the associated rod "I back into its normal position while the clutch finger 36! is held between the extreme left-hand end of the first secondary bar SBIO! and the lug 32! carried by the secondary operating element 30!. Subsequently, when the secondary operating element 30! is rotated back into its home position, in the manner previously explained, the clutch finger 36! is withdrawn from between the extreme left-hand end of the first secondary bar SB!0! and the lug 32! carried by the secondary operating element 30! due to the resiliency of the coil spring 31!; whereby the clutch finger 36! is returned back into its normal position in non-clutching relation with respect to the lug 32! and the cooperating first secondary bar SB! 0!.

In the operation of the switch mechanism SMI00, it will be understood that the marking magnets MM!0!, MM!02, etc., are operated and restored in sequence until the marking magnet finally operated corresponds to the desired group of subscriber lines; at which time the primary magnet PM!!! is energized in order to operate the primary operating element causing the primary bar corresponding to the desired group of subscriber lines to be operated in the manner explained above; the primary bar mentioned being clutched to the primary operating element 20! at this time by virtue of the position of the finally operated marking magnet mentioned. Thereafter, the marking magnets mentioned are further reoperated and restored in sequence, in the event this is necessary, until the marking magnet finally reoperated corresponds to the desired subscriber line in the previously selected group of subscriber lines; at which time the secondary magnet SM! I is energized in order to operate the secondary operating element 30!, causing the secondary bar corresponding to the desired subscriber line in the previously selected group of subscriber lines to be operated in the manner explained above; the secondary bar mentioned being clutched to the secondary operating element 30! at this time by virtue of the position of the finally operated marking magnet mentioned.

Finally, the switch mechanism SMI00 comprises, as best shown in Fig. 4, a mechanical latching arrangement between the primary operating element 20! and the secondary operating element 30!, including a latch lug 40! rigidly secured to the primary operating element 20! and a cam 402 rigidly secured to the secondary operating element 30!. More particularly, the latch lug 40! is secured to the primary operating element 20! in a position disposed between the step-bearing element 202 and the armature 206 of the primary magnet PM! and the cam 402 is secured to the secondary operating element 30! in a position disposed between the stepbearing element 302 and the armature 306 of the secondary magnet SM! A latch bar 403 is pivotally mounted at the extreme left-hand end thereof upon a screw 404 secured to the top plate !02 and carries a roller 405 adjacent to the extreme right-hand end thereof. The latch bar 403 is normally biased in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 4, toward the latch lug 40! and the cam 402 by a coil spring 406, one end of the coil spring 406 being securedto a pin 40! carried by the latch bar 403 and the other end of the coil spring 406 being secured to a pin 408 carried by the top plate !02. Further, the latch bar 403 carries a latch dog 409 that is adapted'to enter a latch keeper or slot 4l0 formed in the latch lug 40! under certain operat ing conditions explained subsequently. Finally, the roller 405 carried by the extreme right-hand end of the latch bar 403 engages a contoured cam surface 4!! provided on the cam 402, thereby to restrain the latch bar 403 in it normal position wherein the latch dog is removed from the associated keeper 4!0 formed in the latch lug 40!. Moreover, the keeper 4!0 formed in the latch lug 40! is normally disposed in an angularly ofiset relation in counterclockwise direction with respect to the latch dog 409 carried by the latch bar 403; whereby the latch dog 409 may not enter the keeper 4!0 formed in the latch lug 40!, when the primary operating element 20! occupies its home position.

During the course of operation of the switch mechanism SMI00, when the primary operatin element 20! is operated away from its home position the latch lug 40! is rotated in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 4, whereby the keeper 4!0 formed in the latch lug 40! is aligned with respect to the latch dog 409 carried by the latch bar 403. However, at this time, the latch dog 403 is restrained out of the keeper 4 0 formed in the latch lug 40! by virtue of engagement between the roller 405 carried on the extreme outer end of the latch bar 403 and the cam surface 4!! formed on the cam 402. Subsequently, when the secondary element 30! is operated, the cam 402 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 4; whereby the roller 405 rolls down the cam surface 4!! formed in the cam 402 under the bias of the coil spring 406; whereby the latch bar 403 is rotated in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 4, causing the latch dog 409 to enter the keeper 4!0 formed in the latch lug 40!. At this time, the winding 205 of the primary magnet PM!!! may be deenergized without effecting restoration of the primary operating element 20! to its home position, so long as the winding 305 of the secondary magnet SM!!! is maintained energized. In other words, the operated secondary operating element 30! maintains operated the primary operating element 20! by virtue of the latching arrangement terclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 4, back into its home position. When the latch bar 403 is thus restored to its home position, the latch dog 409 carried thereby is withdrawn from the keeper 4I0 formed in the latch lug 40!; whereby 1 the latch lug 40I may be rotated in the counter clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 4, permitting restoration of the primary operating element 20I back into its home position. At this time the switch mechanism SMI is completely released and available for further use.

Operation of the finder 600 in conjunction with the control circuit 1000 and the allotter 1100 When one or more of the finder-selector links in the second group are idle, ground potential is applied to the links-busy conductor CI I09, there by to maintain operated the links-busy relay RII50 in the allotter I I00. For example, when the first finder-selector link illustrated is idle, the test relay R640 in the finder 600 occupies its restored position, completing, at the contacts 646, an obvious path for applying ground potential to the links-busy conductor CI I09. The operated links-busy relay RI I50 in the allotter I I00 maintains operated the reset relay RI I45 and one of the link relays RI I30, RI I20, etc., corresponding to the idle link in the second group that is assigned at this time. Assuming that the first link mentioned is idle at this time and that the allotter II00 is operated to select this link to handle the next call originating at a calling subscriber substation in the second 100 line group in the system, the link relay RI I30 in the allotter H00 occupies its operated position. More particularly, a series circuit is completed extending from ground by way of the contacts H52 of the operated linksbusy relay RI I50, the winding of the reset relay RI I45, the winding of the fault relay RI I 40, the

' contacts I I42, H26 and H35 of the operated link zrelay RI I30 and the lower winding of RI I30 to battery; whereby the reset relay RI I45 and the link relay RI I30 are maintained operated. However, the fault relay RI I40 is not operated since the latter relay is of the marginal type. The operating link relay RI I30 corresponding to the first link mentioned prepares, at the contacts II3I, a path traced hereinafter for applying ground potential to the link start conductor CIIOI extending to the start relay R630 in the finder 600; and prepares, at the contacts I I34, a circuit traced hereinafter, including the guard conductor CI I02 extending into the selector 100, for energizing the upper winding of the link relay RI I20 in series with the upper winding of the link disconnect relay RI I60; the link relay RI I20 corresponding to one of the intermediate links in the second group. Finally, it is noted that the link relay RI I I0 corresponds to the last link in the second group. Accordingly, at this time, the allotter II00 is operated to select the first link, comprising the finder 600 and the selector 100, to handle the next call originating at one of the calling subscriber substations in the second I00 line group in the system.

Now assuming that a call is initiated at the 16 subscriber substation T6I I, included in the second 100 group, a circuit is completed including the line conductors C69I and C692 of the subscriber line 690 extending thereto and the contacts Bill and 662 for energizing in series the left-hand and right-hand windings of the line relay R655 in the line circuit 650 individual to the subscriber line 690. When thus energized, the line relay R655 operates to interrupt, at the contacts 651, multiple circuits for applying battery potential to the control conductor C693 of the subscriber line 690; and to complete, at the contacts 656, an obvious path for applying ground potential to the control conductor C693; thereby to mark the subscriber line 690 as busy to the connectors 800, etc., in the second group having access thereto. The normally completed multiple paths mentioned for applying battery potential to the control conductor C693 of the subscriber line 690 include the winding of the cutofi relay R660 and the contacts 663 and the resistor 666 in the line circuit 650. Also, the line relay R655 completes, at the contacts 658, multiple paths substantially identical to those previously traced for applying battery potential to the control conductor C694 of the subscriber line 690, thereby to mark the position of the primary contact Set PC6II terminating the subscriber line 690 in the switch mechanism SM600 incorporated in the finder 600'. Finally, the-line relay R655 completes, at the contacts 659, an obvious path for applying ground potential to the first group start conductor CI002 extending into the control circuit I 000, thereby to initiate operation of the control circuit I000 and the allotter H00 and to mark the group of primary contact sets including the primary contact set PCBII terminating the subscriber line 690 in the switch mechanism SM600 incorporated in the finder 600.

More particularly, the application of ground potential to the first group start conductor C I 002, common to the first group of ten subscriber lines, including the subscriber line 690, marks the group position of the subscriber line 690 to the control circuit I000, as previously noted; and also completes a circuit, including the resistor I025, for operating the start relay RI I15 in the allotter II00. Upon operating the start relay RI I15 completes, at the contacts I I16, a circuit, including the contacts I I86 and I I5I, for energizing the lower winding of th link start relay RII80, thereby to cause the latter relay to operate. Upon operating the link start relay RI I completes, at the contacts IIBI, a holding circuit, including the contacts NH and N16, for energizing the lower winding thereof; and completes, at the contacts H83, a multiple holding circuit for energizing in series the winding of the reset relay RI I 45, the lower winding of the fault relay RI I40 and the lower winding of the link relay RI I30, thereby to maintain operated the reset relay RI I45 and the link relay RI I30 incident to restoration of the links-busy relay RII50 in the special event that the first link mentioned is the last idle link in the second group. Further, the link start relay RI I80 completes, at the contacts II84, a circuit, including the contacts N88, for operating the timer relay RI I; whereby the latter relay sets into vibration its armature RAI I96. Finally, the link start relay RII80 completes, at the contacts H82, a path, including the contacts II 6| and the contacts II3I of the operated link relay RI I30, for applying ground potential to the first link start conductor CIIOI whereby the start relay R630 17 in the finder 600 is operated. Operation of the start relay R630 in the finder 600 is effective to initiate operation thereof in conjunction with operation of the control circuit I in a manner more fully explained hereinafter in order to cause the switch mechanism SM600 to be operated promptly to find the subscriber line 690 extending to the calling subscriber substation '16II in the ordinary case; whereupon the cut-through relay RI I in the allotter is operated in order to prevent a timing operation therein.

However, assuming that for some reason the finder 600 does not operate promptly to find the subscriber line 690 extending to the calling subscriber substation T6II, a timing operation is brought about in the allotter H00; whereby another idle link in the second group is assigned to find the subscriber line 690 extending to the calling subscriber substation T6II and the first link illustrated is released. More particularly, the vibrating armature RAI I96 closes, at the contacts H98 and H99, a circuit, including the contacts H84, for operating the timer relay RI I90 shortly thereafter, the latter relay being of the slow-to-operate type. Upon operating, the timer relay RII90 prepares, at the contacts I I94, an alternative circuit, including the contacts H9"! and the contacts I I 84, for energizing the Winding thereof; which circuit is completed each time the vibrating armatur RAII96 closes the contacts I I91. Also, upon operating the timer relay RI I90 completes, at the contacts I I 92, a circuit, including the contacts H84, for operating the control relay RI I85. Upon operating the control relay RI I85 interrupts, at the contacts H88, the previously traced circuit for maintaining operated the timer relay RI I 95, thereby to cause the latter relay to restore; whereby the armature RAI I96 is again vibrated. The armature RAI I96 vibrates for a considerable time interval maintaining operated the timer relay RI I90; however, after a predetermined time interval the armature RAI I96 settles down; whereby the contacts H91 and H98 are no longer completed alternately in order to effect restoration of the timer relay RI I 80. Upon restoring the timer relay RI I90 interrupts, at the contacts H92, th previously mentioned circuit for maintaining operated the control relay RII85; however, the latter relay does not restore immediately since it is of the slow-to-release type. Also, upon restoring the timer relay RI I90 completes, at the contacts H93, a circuit, including the contacts H84, H81, H54, H33, III4, H34 and H55, for energizing th upper winding of the link relay RI I in series with the upper winding of the link disconnect relay RI I60, thereby to cause the latter relays to operate. Upon operating the link disconnect relay RI I60 interrupts, at the contacts I I6I, the previously traced path for applying ground potential to the first link start conductor CI IOI extending to the first link illustrated in order to efiect restoration of the start relay R630 in the finder 600 and the consequent release of the first link. Further, the link disconnect relay RI I60 completes, at the contacts H63, a holding circuit, including the contacts H14, H81, H93 and H84, for energizing the lower winding thereof. Upon operating the link relay RI I20 interrupts, at the contacts I I26, the previously traced series holding circuit for energizing the lower winding of the link relay RI I and the lower winding of the fault relay RI I and the winding of the reset relay RI I45, thereby to cause the link relay RII30 to restore immediately; the reset relay RII does not restore immediately, since it is of the slowto-release type. Also, the link relay RI I20, upon operating, completes, at the contacts II25, a holding circuit, including the contacts II I6, H42 and I I52, for energizing the lower winding thereof in series with the lower winding of the fault relay RII40 and the winding of the reset relay RII45; whereby the link relay RII20 and the reset relay RI I45 are maintained in their operated positions. Further, the link relay RII20 prepares, at the contacts II2I, a path for applying ground potential to the link start conductor CI I03 extending to the finder of the associated intermediate link. When the control relay RI I restores, it interrupts, at the contacts II 81, the previously traced holding circuit for energizing the lower winding of the link disconnect relay RI l-60, thereby to cause the latter relay to restore at this time, since the previously traced circuit for energizing the upper winding of the link disconnect relay RII60 in series with the upper winding of the link relay RII20 was interrupted, at the contacts H34, of the link relay RI I30 incident to restoration thereof. Upon restoring the link disconnect relay RIIGO completes, at the contacts II6I, a path including the contacts H82 and II2I of the operated link relay RI I20 for applying ground potential to the link start conductor CI I03 extending to the finder of the intermediate link; whereby operation of the finder of the intermediate link proceeds. More specifically, the finder of the intermediate link mentioned cooperates with the control circuit I00 to hunt for the subscriber line 690 extending to the calling subscriber substation T6II in a manner identical to that of the finder 600 of the first link illustrated described below.

' Now assuming, that the finder 600 of the first link operates promptly to find the subscriber line 690 extending to the calling subscriber substation T6II and before operation of the timing apparatus in the allotter I I00 in the manner described above; upon operating the start relay R630 in the finder 600 completes, at the contacts 630, a path for applying ground potential to the hunt conductor CI I08; whereby a. circuit, including the contacts II9I and I023, is completed for operating the start relay RIOI0 in the control circuit I000, when the timer relay RI I in the allotter H00 closes the contacts II9I. Upon operating the start relay RIO I0 completes, at the contacts I0 I I, a path, including the contacts I02I and I03I, for applying ground potential to the pulse conductor CI005, thereby to complete a circuit, including the contacts 635 of the operated start relay R630 in the finder 600, for energizing the magnet M623 of the marker switch 620. When the magnet M623 is thus energized, it operates immediately to drive the wipers 62l and 622 of the marker switch 620 one step in the clockwise direction away from their home positions into engagement with the first contacts in the associated contact banks. Also, upon operating, the magnet M623 completes, at the contacts 625, a path, including the contacts 635 and 634 of the operated start relay R630, for connecting the grounded pulse conductor CI005 to the interrupter conductor CI004. This application of ground potential to the interrupter conductor CI004 completes an obvious circuit for energizing the upper winding of the step relay RI030 in the control circuit I000, thereby to cause the latter relay to operate. Upon operating the step relay RI030 completes, at the contacts I034, a holding circuit, including the contacts I048, I053 and IOI3, for energizing the lower winding thereof. Also, upon operating, the start relay R630 in the finder 600 completes, at the contacts 631, a circuit for energizing the left-hand winding of the test relay R640, thereby to render the latter relay exceedingly fast to operate when the right-hand winding thereof is subsequently energized. When the wiper 62I of the marker switch 620 engages the first contact in the associated contact bank, a circuit, including the contacts 636 of the operated start relay R630, is completed for energizing the first marking magnet MM60I, thereby to cause the first marking magnet MM60I to operate and to clutch the first primary bar PB60I to the primary operating element associated with the primary magnet PM6II and to clutch the first secondary bar SB60I to the secondary operating element associated with the secondary magnet SM6I I.

Also, when the step relay RI030 in the control circuit I000 operates, it interrupts, at the contacts I03I, the previously mentioned path for applying ground potential to the pulse conductor CI005, thereby to interrupt the multiple circuits for energizing the magnet M623 of the marker switch '620 in the finder 600 and the upper winding of the step relay Rl030; whereby the magnet M623 restores and the step relay RI030 is maintained in its operated position due to the completed holding circuit for energizing the lower winding thereof. When the wipers noted of the marker switch 620 are driven from their home positions, the set of switch springs S626 is actuated for a purpose more fully explained hereinafter. Also, when the step relay RI030 in the control circuit I000 operated, it completed, at the contacts I032, a path, including the contacts IOI3, I043 and I04I and the associated resistor, for energizing the upper winding of the transfer relay RI 050, thereby to cause the latter relay to operate since the lower winding of the transfer relay RI050 was energized incident to operation of the start relay RIOI0. The transfer relay RI 050 is of the polarized type and after the lower winding thereof was energized via the circuit completed, at the contacts IOI3 of the operated start relay RIOI0, it operates exceedingly fast when the upper winding thereof is subsequently energized via the circuit completed, at the contacts I032 of the operated step relay RI030. Upon operating the transfer relay RI050 interrupts, at the contacts I053, the previously traced holding circuit for energizing the lower winding of the step relay RI030, thereby to cause the latter relay to restore, since the previously traced circuit for energizing the upper winding thereof was interrupted, at the contacts 625, incident to restoration of the magnet M623 of the marker switch 620 in the finder 600.

Also incident to operation of the start relay R'IOI0 there is completed, at the contacts IOI3, a circuit, including the contacts I046 and I06 I, for operating the first counting relay RI065. Upon operating the first counting relay RI065 completes, at the contacts I069, a circuit, including the contacts IOI3 and the contacts I089 and I093, arranged in multiple, for operating the reset relay RI 060. Also, the first counting relay RI065 completes, at the contacts I068, an alternative holding circuit including the contacts I012, I011, I082, I081 and IOI3 for energizing the winding thereof. Upon operating the reset relay RI060 interrupts, at the contacts I06I, the previously traced original circuit for energizing the winding of the first counting relay RI065;

20 and completes, at the contacts I062, a holding circuit, including the multiple contacts I089 and I093, as well as the contacts IOI3, for energizing the winding thereof.

Further, the first counting relay RI065 completes, at the contacts I066, a connection including the contacts I095 between the lower winding of the stop relay RI020 and the first group start conductor CI00 2;' whereby the stop relay RI020 tests to determine whether the calling subscriber line is included in the first group of ten subscriber lines accessible to the finder 600. In the present example, the subscriber line 690 extending to the calling subscriber substation T6 is included in the first group of ten subscriber lines accessible to the finder 600; whereby ground potential appearing upon the first group start conductor CI002 completes a circuit for energizing the lower winding of the stop relay RI020 in order to cause the latter relay to operate. Upon operating the stop relay RI020 interrupts, at the contacts I023, the previously traced circuit for maintaining operated the start relay RIOI0, thereby to cause the latter relay to restore shortly thereafter, it being of the slow-to-release type. Also, the stop relay RI020 completes, at the contacts I024, a holding circuit, including the contacts I I9I and the grounded hunt conductor CI I08, for energizing the upper winding thereof. Further, the stop relay RI020 interrupts, at the contacts I 02 I, a further point in the previously traced path for applying ground potential to the pulse conductor CI005, thereby positively to prevent further operation of the magnet M623 of the marker switch 620. Finally, the stop relay RI 020 prepares, at the contacts I022, a path, including the contacts I03I, for applying ground potential to the primary magnet conductor C I 003; which path is completed, at the contacts IOI2, incident to the restoration of the start relay RIOI0. The application of ground potential to the magnet conductor CI003 completes a circuit, including the contacts Bill, for operating the primary magnet PM6I| in the finder 600. Also, upon restoring, the start relay RIOI0 interrupts, at the contacts IOI3, the previously traced multiple circuits for energizing the upper and lower windings of the transfer relay RI050, thereby to cause the latter relay to restore; and interrupts, at the contacts IOI3, the previously traced multiple holding circuits for maintaining operated the reset relay RI060 and the first counting relay RI065 in order to cause the latter relays to restore.

When the primary magnet PM6I I of the switch mechanism SM600 in the finder 600 is operated, the first primary bar PB60I clutched to the primary operating element by the operated first marking magnet MM60I is operated; whereby the first group of ten primary contact sets PC6II, PC6I2, etc., and PC6I0 are operated to connect the subscriber lines in the first group of ten to the ten riser busses RB60I, R3602, etc., and RB600, respectively. At this time, the wiper 622 of the marker switch 620 engages the first contact in the associated contact bank; whereby the control conductor of the first riser bus RB60I is connected to the right-hand winding of the test relay R640 and thence by way of the contacts 638 to ground. Accordingly, in the event the calling subscriber line is connected to the first riser bus RB60I, a circuit is immediately completed for energizing the right-hand winding of the test relay R640; which, of course, is the present case, since the subscriber line 690 is connected via the first primary contact set P06 in the first group of ten to the first riser bus RB60I.

primary magnet PMBI I operated to operate the ten primary contact sets P06! I, etc., it ultimately prepared, at the contacts H2, at the end of its operating stroke, a circuit including the contacts I, 633 and 624, for operating the magnet M623 of the marker switch 620, which circuit would have been completed had it not been for the operation of the test relay R646 exceedingly fast, in the present example, to interrupt, at the contacts 6, the circuit above-traced. Accordingly, in the present example, since the calling subscriber line 690 is terminated in the first primary contact set P06 in the first group of ten, it is not necessary to reoperate the marker switch 620 beyond the position wherein the wipers 62I and 622 thereof engage the first contacts in the associated contact banks.

Further, the test relay R643 completes, at the contacts 642, an obvious path for short-circuiting the right-hand winding thereof; whereby direct round potential, at the contacts 633, is applied to the control conductor of the first riser bus RBGIII, and consequently to the control conductor C684 of the subscriber line 630 having battery potential thereon marking the subscriber line 690 as the calling subscriber line, as previously explained. The application of direct ground potential to the control conductor C694 of the subscriber line 695 completes a circuit including the contacts 658 for operating the cutoff relay R660 in the line circuit 650 individual to the subscriber line 690. Upon operating, the cut-off relay R660 interrupts, at the contacts 663, the previously mentioned path for applying battery potential by way of the resistor 665 to the control conductor C694 of the subscriber line 630; and completes, at the contacts 664, a holding circuit for energizing the winding thereof from the grounded control conductor C634 of the subscriber line 690. Further, the cut-off relay R660 interrupts, at the contacts 66I and 662, the previousl traced loop circuit extending between the calling subscriber substation Till and the left-hand and right-hand windings of the line relay R655, thereby to cause the latter relay to restore. Upon restoring the line relay R655 completes, at the contacts 651, a path, including the contacts 66 5', between the control conductors C693 and C694 of the subscriber line 630, thereby to continue the marking of the subscriber line 630 as busy to the connectors "I, etc., in the second group having acces thereto. Further, upon restoring the line relay R655 interrupts, at the cfiitacts 650, the previously mentioned path for applying ground potential to the first group start conductor CI002, thereby to interrupt the previously traced circuit for maintaining operated the start relay RI I15 in the allotter H00 and for energizing the lower winding of the stop relay Rl020 in the control circuit I000. Further, the test relay R640 in the finder 666 completes, at the contacts 643, a path including the contacts 639 for app ying ground potential to the cut-through conductor" CIII1, thereby to complete obvious multiple circuits for energizing the winding of the cut-through relay RI I13 and the upper winding of the link start relay RI III in the allotter 00; whereby the cut-through relay Rlllll operates and the link start relay 22 RH" is maintained operated, notwithstanding the restoration of the start relay RI I15 as previously noted. Further, the test relay R640 in 'the finder 600 completes, at the contacts 644,

an obvious circuit for operating the secondary magnet SMBI I; whereby the secondary operating element eilects operation of the first secondary bar SB60I to clutch thereto by virtue of the operated position of the first marking magnet MMGM. Upon operating the first secondary bar SB60I operates the first secondary contact set SCBII, thereby to connect the first riser bus RB60I to the trunk in order to complete a loop circuit extending from the calling subscriber substation Til I to the upper and lower windings of the line relay R150 in the selector 100; whereby the line relay R150 operates. Further, the test relay R640 in the finder 600 completes, at the contacts 645, a path including the contacts 631 for applying ground potential to the control conductor C133 of the trunk I30, thereby to complete a circuit for energizing the lower winding of the test relay R in the selector 100 in order to render the latter relay exceedingl fast to operate when the upper winding thereof is subsequently energized, since the test relay R146 is of the polarized type. Finally, the test relay R640 in the finder 600 interrupts, at the contacts 646, one of the multiple paths for applying ground potential to the links-busy conductor CII08 extending to the links-busy relay RII50 in the allotter II00 for the purpose previously explained.

Upon operating the line relay R150 in the selector 100 completes, at the contacts 152, an obvious circuit for operating the hold relay R160. Upon operating the hold relay R completes, at the contacts 165, a path for applying ground potential b way of the upper winding of the test relay R140 to the wiper 122 of the marker switch 120; and completes, at the contacts 166, a multiple path for applying ground potential to the control conductor C133 of the trunk 130, thereby to maintain operated the test relay R640 in the finder 600 subsequent to restoration of the start relay R630 therein. Finally, the hold rela R160 completes, at the contacts 161, a path for applying ground potential to the first guard conductor CI I02 extending into the allotter II00; thereby to complete a circuit, including the contacts H34 and H55, for energizing in series the upper winding of the link relay RI I20 and the upper winding of the link disconnect relay RII60; whereby the relays mentioned operate. Upon operating the link relay RI I20 effects the restoration of the link relay RI I30 in the manner previously explained; whereby ground potential is removed, at the contacts II3I, from the first link start conductor CI IOI extending to the finder 600 in order to cause the start relay R630 therein to restore. U-pon restoring the start relay R630 interrupts, at the contacts 63I, 634, 635, 638 and 630, the connections between the finder 600 and the control circuit I003 and the allotter H00. Specifically, the start relay R630 interrupts, at the contacts 63I, the previously traced circuit for energizing the primary magnet PMGII; however, the associated primary operating element is not restored to its home position at this time due to the mechanical latching arrangement disposed between the primary operating element and the secondary operating element, since the secondary operating element is maintained in its operated position by the op- 

